Samsung HLR5078 DLP TV <--- Any thoughts???

I have the 46" model 63 DLP and love it.

I would consider getting an extended warranty just to be sure. Normally

I avoid them but this is a new model.

Go for it. I'm sure you'll be pleased.

I've trusted Samsung for years and I like DLP. Just make sure you have an HD source like digital cable or satellite to get the most out of your investment. DVD is NOT an HD source.

Actually, I'm primarily going to be using standard cable (not HD) at least for the first year, supplemented by DVDs. How do these models fare with analogue video sources?

I used to sell the samsung. On over-the-air analogue, it will look fair from a fair distance(10'-12'). The remotes were the biggest issue with me, but that's really nit-picking considering the potential of that DLP. Do me two favors: Get something other than digital cable(unless it were HD) to watch in the meantime. By a backlight to pop on the back of the set. It makes the picture really snap.

There are some upconvertors out there that can enhance the picture of

analog broadcast and cable rather well. I think Consumer Reports

magazine did a recent review of some. And some TV's themselves have

that capability built-in.

A backlight is just that. It is a low wattage incandescent fixture that sits on the floor, on a stand, or attaches with adhesive to the back of the set. They are relatively small and they rim the picture with backlight. This gives the picture a higher perceived contrast; and helps prevent headaches from eyestrain. You can get an idea of what they do by illuminating only the wall behind the TV with an up-light, or track lighting while you watch. These were made for DLP sets like the Samsung.

I'm pretty sure my cable system provider is sending over an analogue signal. I never see any digital artifacts, and it's rendering quite nice on my 10+ year old TV.

What is a backlight?

I guess I'll ask the salesperson over at the store if it's a necessary item. Any idea if I would need it with this Samsung model, or if it's done by the TV itself?

The only problem is managing expectations: it only looks good until you

see something on HD and then it's almost unwatchable....Once you've

tasted Guiness it's hard to drink Coors....

Well not really but HD is a MAJOR jump in resolution. But, after a few

minutes on a SD feed, my eye adjusts and it becomes a good (but not

great) picture. (BTW: I have a 46" Samsung DLP HDTV not a plasma. I

think the same principle would apply.)

Thanks for all your help (you, too, yustr & ebackhus). I just purchased the Samsung HL-R5078, and it will arrive on Tuesday. :-) I also picked up the Denon AVR-2106 amplifier/receiver. Time will only tell if I made a mistake. ;-)

You guys (and just about everyone else on this newsgroup) restored my faith in usenet.

Did you get your TV how do you like it? Is standard def TV OK with it?